Q: Is my project appropriate for a Bellagio Residency?

A: The Rockefeller Foundation seeks applicants with projects that contribute to discourse and progress related to its dual goals: i) advancing inclusive economies that expand opportunities for more broadly shared prosperity, and ii) building resilience by helping people, communities and institutions prepare for, withstand, and emerge stronger from acute shocks and chronic stresses. Details on the Rockefeller Foundation's mission and goals can be found in the Our Work section of the Foundation’s website. Applicants with projects that may help shape thinking or catalyze action in these areas are also strongly encouraged to apply.

Q: Am I ready to apply?

A: Give serious consideration to whether your project is at a point that a residency at Bellagio could be helpful in moving it forward. We recommend you give yourself plenty of time to develop a strong project proposal, and to ensure that your recommenders are available to answer a questionnaire as required by the application. Applicants are not allowed to re-submit unsuccessful proposals, but they are permitted to submit a significantly revised proposal on similar themes in future application rounds.

Applicants may apply up to a total of three times in a lifetime. Those who have held residencies (or spouses who accompanied residents for more than one week) must wait five years before reapplying. Successful second-time applicants must demonstrate significant professional achievement and/or project advancement since their first residency. Applicants will be asked to include a statement describing what has been accomplished since the previous residency. There is a lifetime limit of two residencies.

Q: What if my work is not in English?

A: If none of your previous work is published in English, you are still eligible to apply for a residency. We ask that you provide an English version of your C.V., and either an English translation (if available) or summary of written work samples so that our reviewers will be able to evaluate these materials. If it is possible to provide a longer summary than a traditional one paragraph abstract, it is very helpful for the reviewers. We do not expect applicants to secure a translation of previous work for the purposes of this competition. We will make every effort to assign your application to a reviewer that is fluent in the language of the materials however please keep in mind that this is not always possible.

Q: If my project is not in an area where I have experience and a track record, what are my prospects?

A: Reviewers are willing to consider projects that take the applicant's work in new directions, but they are more likely to recommend projects that are directly related to an applicant's principal area of training, experience, and expertise. Reviewers are more likely to be favorably disposed if the applicant has already produced a few articles or significant work in the new subject area.

Q: Can I apply if I have already been a resident at Bellagio?

A: For those who have previously applied or had previous residencies, there is a maximum limit of three applications and a maximum limit of two residencies. Former Bellagio residents and spouses applying for a second residency must wait at least five years since their first residency before submitting a new application. Successful second-time applicants must demonstrate significant professional achievement and/or project advancement since their first residency. Applicants will be asked to include a statement in the online application form describing what has been accomplished since the previous residency.

Q: If there has already been considerable research published in my project area, will it be considered as competitive?

A: If the project's subject is one that has already been extensively studied by others, it is imperative to demonstrate the new perspective or approach that you will bring to the subject. The Center has a strong interest in projects that are innovative and will be impactful in the respective field.

Q: What should I consider in order to have a good balance between the scope of my work and a four-week residency?

A: There should be an appropriate balance between the proposed scope of work and the length of the residency. In other words, do not propose to do more in the four weeks at Bellagio than is reasonable, and likewise do not propose a work plan that can be accomplished in less than four weeks. It is important to explain in the application, preferably in the project draft/project daft outline, what the proposed activities will be while at Bellagio and a work plan for the residency period should be clearly articulated.

Q: Is it possible to submit a team project?

A: Yes, team projects involving up to three members are welcome to apply, however please present team projects wisely. The Bellagio Center has limited capacity and team members must all be prepared to provide significant contribution to the project, and demonstrate a similar level of either experience or expertise in the project subject area. In the spirit of providing space for interactions of individuals from a mix of geographic locations, team members who are based in the same home institution are not eligible to apply as a collaborative team. Be sure to check the Collaborative Projects tab for more information and requirements.

Q: What if I leave the Center to travel around Europe for my project?

A: Residents are expected to be at the Center for the majority of the time during their residency to fulfill an important objective of the residency - to bring the participants into active engagement with each other. Collegial interaction with other residents is an essential dimension of the Bellagio experience, and residents are expected to discuss their projects, receive, and provide feedback.

Q: What are the accommodations?

A: Residents are housed in two main buildings and each resident is given a private room with bath and a study/studio, either adjoining the bedroom or on the grounds. Room and board are provided to all residents and their spouses/partners, but residents are responsible for their airfare and local transportation to and from Bellagio. However, the Foundation offers a travel assistance grant through an application process for those requiring this type of support.

Please note: Travel assistance is not a factor during the selection process. The travel assistance grant process begins once an applicant has been selected.